With the wheel off the ground, check for wear in the wheel hub bearings by grasping the wheel and trying to rock it. A very slight play may be felt, that is OK, but if the movement is appreciable, you should seek further advice

Now remove the wheel

Check condition of brake discs. Some light scoring is normal on the area in contact with the brake pads, but if heavy scoring and/or cracks found on the disc or around the wheel bolt holes, the disc must be renewed. ALWAYS replace both front discs and pads

Now locate the brake pads, there are two, one on each side of the disc. Locate the brake pad wearing surface

Using a ruler, measure the approximate thickness of the remaining wear material on the brake pad. If it is less than 2.0mm, all front pads need to be replaced

TIP - Virtually all cars have this inspection window in the brake caliper body, you can usually see the brake pad thickness from here

Now quickly check all the brake pipes for condition, check for any leaks, also inspect the rubber gaitors for integrity. Replace the wheel and repeat on the other side

As with the fronts, check for wear in the rear wheel hub bearings by grasping the wheel and trying to rock it. Very slight play is OK, but if the movement is appreciable, you should seek further advice

Check condition of the rear brake discs

Locate rear brake pads

Measure brake pad wear thickness. If it is less than 2.0mm, all rear pads need to be replaced

Take a good look around the brake system and the suspension arm, checking for any leaks. Seek advice should you any detect leakage and/or serious damage to the components

Check rubber exhaust mountings

Before refitting the tyres, take a look at the tyre tread, there is a UK legal requirement to have a minimum of 1.6mm remaining tread depth. Also check sidewalls for any kerb damage

Finally, check the condition of the spare wheel / emergency tyre repair system